Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes result from problems with the hormone insulin and its receptors. Unlike type 1, type 2 diabetes is amenable to lifestyle choices. Although not always the case, obesity and high cholesterol -- both risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes -- often correlate with diets low in vitamin and minerals. A vitamin and mineral deficiency in itself, however, doesn't directly cause diabetes.
About Diabetes
Two forms of diabetes exist. Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body produces no insulin, the key hormone for maintaining and controlling blood sugar; diagnosis usually occurs in childhood. Type 2 diabetes accounts for 95 percent of cases, according to the American Diabetes Association, and occurs when the body produces insufficient insulin or when insulin receptors are impaired. Left unregulated, chronically high blood sugar levels can lead to host of problems throughout the body.
Nutritional Risk Factors
There are risk factors for type 2 diabetes you can't control such as family history, older age and ethnicity. But many factors are under your control including weight and high blood cholesterol risk. High cholesterol is extremely manageable with diet changes. Doctors recommend diets high in fiber, low in cholesterol, saturated fat and trans fat to control cholesterol and weight. Saturated fat content is the biggest factor in raising levels of bad cholesterol -- low-density lipoprotein, or LDL -- in the body.
Healthy and Unhealthy Food Choices
Diets rich in unhealthy, nutrient-deficient foods, such as sweets and processed foods can increase your risk for high cholesterol and obesity. Alternatively, diets rich in healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables usually correlate with more vitamins and minerals and better health outcomes. For example, one medium doughnut contains 3.48 g of saturated fat, 255 calories and few vitamins and minerals -- 64 mg of potassium, 15 IU of vitamin A and 0.8 mg of vitamin C. In comparison, one medium banana contains miniscule amounts of saturated fat, 105 calories, 422 mg of potassium, 76 IU of vitamin A and 10.3 mg of vitamin C. While vitamin and mineral deficiencies don't cause diabetes, diets centered on unhealthy foods are generally less nutrient-rich and increase your risk for diabetes.
Nutritional Recommendations for Diabetes
If you have diabetes, carbohydrates are central to your meal planning. You need them for energy and to maintain blood sugar levels, but eating healthy carbs should be the goal. Fruits, vegetables and legumes are the best bet for carbohydrate intake. Additionally, choose healthy protein such as seafood instead of fatty cuts of red meat and poultry. Fiber is also important for diabetics and especially good sources are whole grains, vegetables, fruits and nuts. Fats are important in a diet, but avoid the unhealthy saturated fat variety. Opt for monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in nuts and certain oils, such as olive and canola oil. All these foods reduce high cholesterol risk, control weight and have the added benefit of being rich in vitamins and minerals.
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